Transplanting fat from one part of the body to augment the soft tissues in another part has been done by plastic surgeons for years. However recently a technique has been described to transfer the fat in a more careful way (lipostructure) so that a larger percentage of the fat will survive. The percentage of fat absorption in literature reaches up to 40%, which explains why a second procedure is sometimes necessary.
It can be used for lip enhancement, nose to mouth lines (nasolabial folds), cheeks, temples or any other area suffering from lack of soft tissue. It can be used for aesthetic reconstruction of the face in patients with lipodystrophy in the context of scleroderma, AIDS, Parry-Romberg syndrome etc.
The surgery:
Depending on the area involved it can be done under local anaesthetic. You do not have to stay in the hospital. Fat is taken from an area like your tummy or thighs through two or three small incisions. It is then injected in a multi-layer technique to improve contour. Small incisions have to be made once again to inject the fat in the appropriate area. A small dressing will cover the incision lines.
Complications
Depending on fat survival you may need to repeat the procedure (especially in breast augmentation). The small scars from the incisions normally fade after a time and blend in with the rest of the skin. Due to the multi-layer technique lumpiness is not common but may occur. Swelling and bruising can last from a few days to 10 days depending on the area. To reduce the risk of infection you will be given antibiotic tablets.
After the surgery
Fat surviving at three months can be considered permanent. The sutures will be removed after 7 days. Depending on the area involved and the amount of swelling and bruising you may wish to avoid social contact for the first 5-7 days.